Milwaukee

Severe Cold Advisory Issued for Milwaukee Area, Risk of Frostbite Amid Sub-Zero Wind Chills

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Published on January 20, 2025
Severe Cold Advisory Issued for Milwaukee Area, Risk of Frostbite Amid Sub-Zero Wind ChillsSource: Unsplash/Aditya Vyas

The National Weather Service in Milwaukee has issued a cold weather advisory that remains in force for residents across Kenosha, Milwaukee, Racine, Walworth, and Waukesha Counties until noon CST Tuesday, January 20. In the grip of a frosty climate, the advisory warns of wind chills plummeting to as low as 30 degrees below zero. This severe cold snap brings with it the threat of frostbite on exposed skin that could manifest in as little as 10 minutes, the National Weather Service cautions.

The forecast spells out a few flurries later in the day, amidst a backdrop of a mostly sunny and bitterly cold high near 3 degrees. Wind chill values are expected to be lodged in the bone-chilling range between -15 to -25 degrees. The advisory insists on residents wearing adequate clothing, including a hat and gloves, to mitigate the risk of cold-induced injuries. Locals are advised to remain vigilant of the conditions, particularly the potential for frostbite on unprotected flesh, as reported by the National Weather Service.

Looking ahead, the weather is not expected to let up until Wednesday when temperatures will rise to a high near 22 degrees, although there is a 50 percent chance of snow. Until that slight respite arrives, the nightly low is anticipated to drop to around -10 degrees, with wind chill values continuing to hover at dangerously cold levels between -15 and -25 degrees, as per the National Weather Service.

While the Milwaukee area is no stranger to cold winters, the current advisory serves as a precarious reminder for its residents. The National Weather Service underscores the importance of taking the frigid temperatures seriously and preparing accordingly, "Use caution while traveling outside. Wear appropriate clothing, a hat, and gloves." These precautions are essential for those intending to brave the outdoor elements during this arctic blast, as the region battens down the hatches against the deep freeze.